Pacific National hauled 3.37 million tonne kilometres for the three months to September 30, an increase of 11.2% over the corresponding quarter last year.

Asciano said coal haulage volumes were strong thanks to continued customer demand and operating benefits associated with track infrastructure improvements completed late last financial year.

“These solid results in uncertain economic times serve to highlight the benefits of diversity in our business and customer base,” Asciano managing director Mark Rowsthorn said.